Formula 1 returns to Sepang International Circuit in 2026, and for thousands of fans heading to the track, one of the biggest questions will be: how do you actually get to Sepang from Kuala Lumpur?
The Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia 2026 takes place at Sepang International Circuit from 2 to 4 October 2026. Practice sessions will be held on Friday, qualifying takes place on Saturday, and the Grand Prix starts at 3:00pm on Sunday, 4 October.
Sepang International Circuit is located close to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), rather than in Kuala Lumpur city centre itself. That means travelling to the circuit requires more planning than attending an event at Bukit Jalil or central Kuala Lumpur.
For the 2026 race weekend, one of the easiest public transport options is the special Sepang Race Train Pass, which combines travel from KL Sentral to KLIA Terminal 2 with complimentary official shuttle buses between the airport and Sepang International Circuit.
Driving, Grab, taxis and airport-area accommodation are other possibilities.
This guide explains the different ways to get to Sepang International Circuit for F1 2026, how to travel from Kuala Lumpur and KLIA, and what to consider when leaving the circuit after the race.
F1 at Sepang 2026: Race Weekend at a Glance
Formula 1 returns to Sepang from Friday, 2 October to Sunday, 4 October 2026.
The main Formula 1 schedule is:
| Date | Session | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, 2 October | Practice 1 | 12:30pm – 1.30pm |
| Friday, 2 October | Practice 2 | 4:00pm – 5.00pm |
| Saturday, 3 October | Practice 3 | 12:30pm – 1.30pm |
| Saturday, 3 October | Qualifying | 4:00pm – 5.00pm |
| Sunday, 4 October | Drivers’ Parade | 1:00pm |
| Sunday, 4 October | Grand Prix | 3:00pm – 5.00pm |
The Grand Prix is scheduled for 56 laps of the 5.543-kilometre Sepang International Circuit.
Because tens of thousands of spectators will be travelling towards the same venue, you should allow considerably more time than you would for a normal trip to Sepang.
Where Is Sepang International Circuit?
Sepang International Circuit is located at:
PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit
Jalan Pekeliling
64000 KLIA
Selangor, Malaysia
The circuit is situated close to Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
Despite Formula 1 often listing the venue as Kuala Lumpur, Sepang International Circuit is not in Kuala Lumpur city centre. Visitors staying around KLCC, Bukit Bintang or Chinatown will need to travel south towards the airport area.
This is important when choosing where to stay and how to travel during race weekend.
Best Ways to Get to Sepang F1 2026
There are several practical options:
| Transport | Best for |
|---|---|
| KLIA Ekspres + official shuttle | Visitors staying in central KL |
| Grab / taxi | Groups and door-to-door convenience |
| Driving | Malaysians and visitors with cars |
| Stay near KLIA/Sepang | Minimising race-day travel |
| KLIA arrival + shuttle/road transfer | Visitors flying into Malaysia |
For many visitors staying in Kuala Lumpur, the KLIA Ekspres and official shuttle combination is likely to be one of the simplest options, particularly because race-weekend road congestion and parking can make driving less predictable.
Option 1: KLIA Ekspres + Official F1 Shuttle Bus
For the 2026 race weekend, KLIA Ekspres has introduced a special Sepang Race Train Pass.
The pass provides six KLIA Ekspres trips between KL Sentral and KLIA Terminal 2, allowing one return journey on each of the three race days.
Sepang Race Train Pass
Price: RM200 per person
Valid: 2–4 October 2026
Includes:
- Six KLIA Ekspres journeys
- Travel between KL Sentral and KLIA Terminal 2
- Enough trips for three daily return journeys
Children below six can travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying adult holding a valid pass. Children aged six and above require the standard pass.
The train journey between KL Sentral and KLIA Terminal 2 takes approximately 33 minutes.
After arriving at KLIA Terminal 2, follow signs towards the Transportation Hub / Express Bus Terminal, where official shuttle buses will operate between KLIA T2 and Sepang International Circuit.
Complimentary shuttle bus transfers between KLIA T2 and the circuit are being provided to race-weekend attendees by the official bus service provider.
The journey therefore looks like this:
Kuala Lumpur → KL Sentral → KLIA Ekspres → KLIA T2 → Official Shuttle Bus → Sepang International Circuit
For visitors staying in central Kuala Lumpur, this removes much of the uncertainty associated with driving directly into the Sepang race traffic.
How to Buy the Sepang Race Train Pass
The RM200 Sepang Race Train Pass can be purchased through:
- KLIA Ekspres website
- KLIA Ekspres mobile app
- Self-service kiosks
- KLIA Ekspres ticket counters
The pass is valid only during the 2–4 October 2026 race weekend, and unused journeys expire after the event.
You do not need to reserve a seat on KLIA Ekspres. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
If you are attending all three days and staying in Kuala Lumpur, the six included journeys are designed to cover a return trip between KL Sentral and KLIA T2 each day.
Getting to KL Sentral for the F1 Train
KL Sentral is Kuala Lumpur’s main transport hub and is relatively easy to reach from most parts of the city.
You can get to KL Sentral using:
- LRT Kelana Jaya Line
- KL Monorail
- MRT Kajang Line via Muzium Negara
- KTM Komuter
- Rapid KL buses
- Grab
- Taxi
If you’re staying around KLCC, the Kelana Jaya Line provides a direct train to KL Sentral.
From Bukit Bintang, you can use the KL Monorail or take the MRT Kajang Line to Muzium Negara and walk through the pedestrian connection to KL Sentral.
Visitors staying around Chinatown can take the Kelana Jaya Line from Pasar Seni directly to KL Sentral.
See our complete KL Sentral Guide if you’re unfamiliar with Kuala Lumpur’s main transport hub.
You can also read our KL Monorail Guide, LRT Kelana Jaya Line Guide and MRT Kuala Lumpur Guide when planning your connection to KL Sentral.
2026 KLIA Ekspres Race Weekend Frequency
KLIA Ekspres is increasing its frequency for the F1 weekend.
For Friday, 2 October and Saturday, 3 October, trains are scheduled approximately every 20 minutes from 5:00am until 1:00am.
On Sunday, 4 October, race-day services are scheduled approximately:
- Every 20 minutes from 5:00am–11:00am
- Every 15 minutes from 11:00am–11:00pm
- Every 20 minutes from 11:00pm–1:00am
Even with the increased frequency, expect trains and transfer points to become busy, particularly after qualifying and the Grand Prix.
Option 2: Getting to Sepang F1 by Grab
Using Grab or another e-hailing service can be convenient, particularly if you are travelling with several people.
From central Kuala Lumpur, a normal road journey to Sepang International Circuit can take around an hour depending on your starting point and traffic.
During Formula 1 weekend, however, you should not plan your journey based on normal traffic conditions.
Road congestion can build around:
- Sepang International Circuit
- KLIA
- Circuit entrances
- Parking areas
- Drop-off zones
- Major approach roads
Race day will likely be the busiest.
Advantages of taking Grab
- Door-to-door journey
- Convenient for groups
- No need to change trains
- No need to park
- Useful for very early journeys
Disadvantages
- Fares may increase with demand
- Heavy traffic can significantly extend the journey
- Pick-up after the race may be difficult
- Drivers may take time to reach designated pick-up areas
- Mobile networks may be busy with large crowds
The journey to Sepang may be relatively straightforward early in the morning. Getting a Grab after the race is likely to require more patience.
Option 3: Driving to Sepang International Circuit
Driving gives you the most flexibility, particularly if you’re travelling from elsewhere in the Klang Valley rather than central Kuala Lumpur.
Sepang International Circuit is accessible through several major highways connecting Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, KLIA and surrounding areas.
If driving, follow official event traffic signs as you approach the circuit rather than relying exclusively on your usual navigation route.
Temporary traffic management measures may be introduced during the event.
Before driving to F1, check:
- Your designated parking area
- Whether parking must be purchased in advance
- Which circuit entrance serves your parking zone
- Official road closures or diversions
- Gate opening times
- Your route after the race
Do not simply drive to the circuit and assume parking will be available close to your grandstand.
Large motorsport events at Sepang use multiple parking zones and entrances, and walking distances can be substantial.
Should You Drive or Take the Train to Sepang F1?
For visitors staying around KLCC, Bukit Bintang, Chinatown or KL Sentral, the train-and-shuttle option is likely to be simpler because it avoids much of the driving and parking uncertainty.
Driving becomes more attractive if:
- You are travelling with several people
- You live outside central Kuala Lumpur
- Your accommodation has easy highway access
- You have confirmed circuit parking
- You want more control over departure times
However, remember that having a car does not allow you to bypass race-day congestion around the circuit.
Whichever option you choose, the biggest difference may be what happens after the race, rather than how easily you arrive in the morning.
Option 4: Getting to Sepang International Circuit from KLIA
Sepang International Circuit is much closer to Kuala Lumpur International Airport than Kuala Lumpur city centre.
For F1 2026, spectators at KLIA Terminal 2 can use the official shuttle bus service between the airport and Sepang International Circuit.
Follow event signage towards the Transportation Hub / Express Bus Terminal.
This makes staying near KLIA an attractive option for international visitors primarily travelling to Malaysia for Formula 1.
Instead of travelling from Kuala Lumpur each morning, you can stay around the airport and make a much shorter journey towards the circuit.
The trade-off is that you’ll be much farther from Kuala Lumpur’s nightlife, restaurants and attractions in areas such as Bukit Bintang and KLCC.
Option 5: Stay Near Sepang or KLIA
One of the easiest ways to reduce transport stress during F1 weekend is simply to stay closer to the circuit.
Areas to consider include:
KLIA
Best for travellers prioritising circuit access and airport convenience.
Sepang
Best for staying relatively close to the circuit, although accommodation and restaurant choices vary considerably depending on location.
Putrajaya
Putrajaya provides more hotels, restaurants and amenities while remaining south of Kuala Lumpur.
It is also connected to the MRT Putrajaya Line and KLIA Transit.
Our Where to Stay in Putrajaya guide covers accommodation options if you’re considering staying there for the race weekend.
Cyberjaya
Cyberjaya is another alternative between Kuala Lumpur and Sepang, with modern hotels, restaurants and access to the MRT Putrajaya Line.
If Formula 1 is the main reason for your trip, staying south of Kuala Lumpur could save considerable travel time over the three-day weekend.
Can You Take the MRT Directly to Sepang International Circuit?
No.
There is no MRT or LRT station at Sepang International Circuit.
The MRT Putrajaya Line terminates at Putrajaya Sentral, which is still some distance from the circuit.
If you’re already staying along the Putrajaya Line, you could potentially travel towards Putrajaya and continue by road, but this is not the dedicated 2026 F1 public transport arrangement.
For race weekend, the officially promoted rail option from central Kuala Lumpur is KLIA Ekspres from KL Sentral to KLIA T2, followed by the official shuttle bus to Sepang International Circuit.
See our MRT Putrajaya Line Guide if you’re staying in Putrajaya, Cyberjaya or elsewhere along the route.
Can You Take KLIA Transit to Sepang F1?
KLIA Transit serves several stations between KL Sentral and the airport, including:
- Bandar Tasik Selatan
- Putrajaya & Cyberjaya
- Salak Tinggi
- KLIA Terminal 1
- KLIA Terminal 2
However, the special Sepang Race Train Pass for F1 2026 is valid on KLIA Ekspres between KL Sentral and KLIA T2, not KLIA Transit.
If you’re staying in central Kuala Lumpur and want to use the dedicated race arrangement, follow the KLIA Ekspres + KLIA T2 shuttle route.
Our KLIA Express vs KLIA Transit Guide explains the differences between the two airport rail services.
Getting Back to Kuala Lumpur After F1
This is the part of the journey that deserves the most planning.
Tens of thousands of spectators can leave Sepang International Circuit within a relatively short period after qualifying or the Grand Prix.
That means:
- Roads can become congested
- Shuttle buses may have queues
- Grab demand can surge
- Pick-up areas can become crowded
- Parking areas can take time to clear
If using the official public transport arrangement, follow signs to the shuttle bus departure point for KLIA Terminal 2, then transfer to KLIA Ekspres for KL Sentral.
Race-day KLIA Ekspres services are scheduled to run at increased frequencies, including approximately every 15 minutes between 11:00am and 11:00pm.
Do not make extremely tight dinner, flight or transport connections immediately after the Grand Prix.
How Early Should You Leave Kuala Lumpur for Sepang F1?
For Formula 1 weekend, earlier is better.
Friday will generally offer more flexibility, while Saturday and especially Sunday will attract larger crowds.
On race day, the Grand Prix begins at 3:00pm, but the Drivers’ Parade begins at 1:00pm, with other support activities taking place earlier.
You should aim to arrive at the circuit well before the Grand Prix itself.
Remember that arriving at Sepang International Circuit does not mean you’ll immediately be sitting in your grandstand.
You still need time for:
- Shuttle unloading or parking
- Walking to the entrance
- Security checks
- Ticket scanning
- Finding your gate
- Walking to your grandstand
- Buying food or drinks
- Exploring the fan zone
Sepang is a large circuit. Allow considerably more time than you think you need.
Getting to Sepang F1 from Popular Kuala Lumpur Areas
From KLCC
Take the LRT Kelana Jaya Line from KLCC to KL Sentral, then change to KLIA Ekspres for KLIA T2 and the official shuttle to Sepang.
From Bukit Bintang
Two convenient options are:
Option 1: KL Monorail from Bukit Bintang to KL Sentral.
Option 2: MRT Kajang Line from Bukit Bintang to Muzium Negara, then walk through the pedestrian connection to KL Sentral.
Continue by KLIA Ekspres.
From Chinatown
Take the LRT Kelana Jaya Line from Pasar Seni to KL Sentral, then transfer to KLIA Ekspres.
From KL Sentral
This is the simplest starting point.
Take KLIA Ekspres directly to KLIA Terminal 2, then follow signs to the official F1 shuttle.
From Putrajaya
If you’re staying in Putrajaya, travelling directly by Grab or car may be more practical than heading north to KL Sentral simply to take the dedicated race train.
Check current road conditions and official race transport information before travelling.
What to Bring for the Journey to Sepang
Sepang’s climate can be demanding.
Expect:
- Heat
- High humidity
- Strong sunshine
- Possible heavy rain
Consider bringing:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun protection
- Hat
- Poncho or compact rain protection
- Portable power bank
- Small permitted water bottle
- Ticket or digital ticket
- Identification
- Touch ‘n Go card for other Kuala Lumpur transport
Always check the latest event rules before packing because restrictions on bags, bottles and other items may apply.
Tips for Getting to Sepang F1 2026
- Leave Kuala Lumpur earlier than you think necessary.
- Use KLIA Ekspres and the official shuttle if you want to avoid driving.
- Buy the Sepang Race Train Pass in advance if it suits your itinerary.
- Check which circuit entrance is closest to your grandstand.
- Save screenshots of tickets and transport information.
- Carry a power bank.
- Expect queues after qualifying and the race.
- Do not book a tight connection immediately after Sunday’s Grand Prix.
- Check weather forecasts before leaving your hotel.
- Follow official Sepang Circuit and transport updates during race weekend.
- If driving, confirm your parking arrangements before leaving.
- If using Grab, expect higher demand after major sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Formula 1 at Sepang in 2026?
The Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia takes place at Sepang International Circuit from 2–4 October 2026.
What time is the Sepang F1 race?
The Grand Prix is scheduled to start at 3:00pm on Sunday, 4 October 2026.
Where is Sepang International Circuit?
Sepang International Circuit is located near Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Sepang, Selangor, south of Kuala Lumpur city centre.
Is there a train directly to Sepang International Circuit?
No. There is no railway station directly at the circuit.
For F1 2026, spectators can take KLIA Ekspres from KL Sentral to KLIA Terminal 2 and continue by official shuttle bus to Sepang International Circuit.
How much is the Sepang Race Train Pass?
The 2026 Sepang Race Train Pass costs RM200 and provides six KLIA Ekspres trips between KL Sentral and KLIA T2 during the three-day race weekend.
Does the Sepang Race Train Pass include the shuttle bus?
Complimentary shuttle buses are being provided between KLIA Terminal 2 and Sepang International Circuit for race-weekend attendees. The bus service is operated separately by the official bus provider.
How long does KLIA Ekspres take?
KLIA Ekspres takes approximately 33 minutes between KL Sentral and KLIA Terminal 2.
Allow additional time for waiting, transferring to the shuttle bus and travelling from KLIA T2 to the circuit.
Can I take Grab to Sepang F1?
Yes. Grab and taxis can be used to reach the circuit, but heavy demand and road congestion should be expected during the Formula 1 weekend, particularly after qualifying and Sunday’s race.
Can I drive to Sepang F1?
Yes, but check official parking arrangements before travelling. Parking zones, traffic routes and circuit entrances can affect how easily you reach your grandstand.
Can I take the MRT to Sepang?
Not directly. The MRT Putrajaya Line terminates at Putrajaya Sentral, and you would still need road transport to reach Sepang International Circuit.
Is Sepang International Circuit near KLIA?
Yes. The circuit is located close to Kuala Lumpur International Airport, making the KLIA area considerably closer to the track than central Kuala Lumpur.
Should I stay in Kuala Lumpur or near Sepang for F1?
Stay in Kuala Lumpur if you want easy access to restaurants, nightlife, shopping and city attractions outside race hours.
Consider KLIA, Sepang, Putrajaya or Cyberjaya if reducing your daily journey to and from the circuit is more important.
Getting to Sepang International Circuit for Formula 1 in 2026 requires more planning than attending an event in central Kuala Lumpur, but the special race-weekend transport arrangements make travelling without a car much easier.
For visitors staying in central Kuala Lumpur, the most straightforward public transport route is:
KL Sentral → KLIA Ekspres → KLIA Terminal 2 → Official Shuttle → Sepang International Circuit
The RM200 Sepang Race Train Pass provides six KLIA Ekspres journeys over the three-day race weekend, while complimentary shuttle buses connect KLIA T2 with the circuit.
Driving, Grab and taxis remain alternatives, particularly for groups and people staying outside central Kuala Lumpur. Visitors who want to minimise their daily commute can also consider staying near KLIA, Sepang, Cyberjaya or Putrajaya.
Whichever option you choose, arrive early and plan your journey home before you reach the circuit. With thousands of spectators leaving after qualifying and Sunday’s Grand Prix, getting out of Sepang can take considerably longer than getting in.
And if you’re visiting Kuala Lumpur for Formula 1, explore our Getting Around Kuala Lumpur, Public Transport in Kuala Lumpur, KL Sentral, KLIA Express vs KLIA Transit, MRT Kuala Lumpur and KL Monorail guides to plan the rest of your trip.
